Diako boss Nähtke resigns: Malteser takes over in Flensburg!
John Nähtke is giving up his management of the Diako Hospital in Flensburg because the Maltese are taking over the hospital.

Diako boss Nähtke resigns: Malteser takes over in Flensburg!
Something is happening in Flensburg: The Diako Hospital is facing a major upheaval. John Nähtke, who has been managing director since December 2023, will step down as the hospital will be taken over by Malteser-Krankenhaus gGmbH on March 1, 2026. This takeover is causing lively discussions in the region, not least because of the associated changes in the clinic's range of services. NDR reports that there is a controversial debate surrounding the Maltese decision not to carry out abortions in clinics in the future.
What does this mean for employees and patients? Nähtke will officially resign on the day he takes over the role. The change from Diakonie, a Protestant organization, to the Maltese, which is Catholic, not only brings with it a new name for the clinic, but also questions about future medical care. With the takeover, the Maltese company is pursuing the goal of pooling forces and better mastering the growing challenges in the healthcare system n-tv reported.
Takeover and new concept
The transfer of the shares is subject to legal review, but there is good news for the employees: All employment contracts remain untouched, which means that the employer, Diako Hospital gGmbH, will remain in place and no specific job cuts are planned. This should be a reason for relief for many employees.
The planned Fördeklinik will also be taken over by the Maltese. The roadmap for implementation remains in place and the aim is to complete it by 2030. The medical concept of the funded clinic should continue to exist regardless of the change in ownership. In addition, an ecumenical health campus is being sought, which will include both adult and child psychiatry as well as an education center for health professions. The board of the Diako Hospital sees this step as necessary to secure the future of the Fördeklinikum.
The Maltese's decision to no longer offer certain services such as abortions has already led to critical voices. Patients and staff are concerned about how this decision will impact the quality of care in the region. It remains to be seen how the discussions will develop and what further information will be announced regarding the new name of the clinic and its future direction.
In summary: The move to the Maltese brings with it opportunities, but also challenges. The coming months could be crucial for the Diako Hospital in setting the course for a successful future.